Burroughs Quote by Truman Capote
“Norman Mailer thinks William Burroughs is a genius, which I think is ludicrous beyond words. I don't think William Burroughs has an ounce of talent.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Literary discussion, 1970s
The speaker dismisses Burroughs’ talent, calling the praise excessive and irrational.
In simple terms: Criticizes Burroughs’ literary value.
Key Takeaway
Question artistic merit.
Themes
criticism
literature
subjectivity
Mood
critical
defensive
Type
opinion
controversial
When to use this quote
- book clubs
- academic debates
- creative writing workshops
Key Concepts
aesthetic judgment
ego
Questions to Reflect On
- What defines literary genius?
- How do personal biases shape criticism?
A Different Perspective
Taste is subjective; others may value Burroughs highly.
![“[william] Burroughs, incidentally, took up the slogan that we are "Here to go", which contradicts the tendency in Eastern mysticism to advocate staying where you are because there's nowhere to go anyway. I feel conflicted on this one.” quote by Quentin S. Crisp](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/aa0/quentin-s-crisp-4149_burroughs_william-burroughs-incidentally-took-up-t_122911.jpg)
![“I really think [William] Burroughs was onto something here, when he said, "Dreams are a biologic necessity and your lifeline into space."” quote by Quentin S. Crisp](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/d4b/quentin-s-crisp-4149_burroughs_i-really-think-william-burroughs-was-ont_464032.jpg)
